Attaching importance of parliamentary diplomacy as a complementary mechanism to traditional diplomacy, Bangladesh and Russia have expressed interest for cooperation on international parliamentary forums to widen understanding, engagement, and multilateralism.

Both the sides discussed about the formation of parliamentary friendship groups in their respective parliaments.

Will rely on your help, support on both bilateral, UNGA fronts: FM tells Russian counterpart

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman held an official meeting in Moscow with Deputy Speaker of the Senate of the Russian Federation Konstantin Kosachev on June 9 and discussed the issues.

Foreign Minister Dr Rahman is on a three-day official visit to Russian Federation at the invitation of his Russian counterpart.

Adviser on Foreign Affairs to Prime Minister Humaiun Kobir was present at the meeting.

The Foreign Minister is scheduled to return home on Thursday, a senior official told UNB.

The Russian Deputy Speaker congratulated Bangladesh on holding the landmark general elections in February this year and subsequently the formation of the new government of led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

During the meeting, they discussed enhancing legislative cooperation, digital transformation, capacity building, and parliamentary diplomacy in parliamentary affairs, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts toward digital transformation including e-Parliament initiatives, digital legislative services, and citizen engagement platforms.

Both sides agreed to explore opportunities for cooperation and knowledge sharing with Russian parliamentary institutions including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and legislative research. 

They also discussed enhancing professional exchange programmes, exchange of parliamentary delegations, and capacity-building opportunities. 

The Foreign Minister invited a parliamentary delegation from Russia to visit Bangladesh.